How Your Company Can Use Experiential Marketing in 2021
Marketing…what comes to mind when you hear that word? While marketing strategies look different across every industry, it is particularly important right now as we are recovering from a pandemic. As every company is going to implement new and improved methods of operation as well as new ideas for how to bring in business in a post-pandemic market, staying relevant and in the front of your ideal client’s minds by means of marketing is key.
Depending on the business, reasons for marketing will vary. While some companies are looking to build a reputation and gain social proof, others are looking to inform and educate potential clients/customers on their product or service. However, the common denominator is that businesses use marketing as a tool to drive business and bring in sales. Particularly after a year of minimal in-person interaction, experiential marketing is something you will want to maximize. An effective way to do so is through Experiential Marketing.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to have a physical product to use experiential marketing as part of your strategy. Any campaign where you’re interacting with your potential clients/customers is classified as experiential marketing. This is something that can set the foundation for a long lasting relationship between a brand and their clients as it gives you the opportunity to make a lasting impression. Here are three ways you can use this type of marketing to drive your business.
Brand Partnerships
This can work particularly well if you run a business that does not have a physical product. Free samples of any kind are sure to grab people’s attention. Hosting an experiential event in a public space such as a city park or taking the approach of guerilla marketing. Partner with a product based brand where they can give out free samples of their product while you provide a memorable experience of some sort. It can be a game for a prize, a sensory experience, or an opportunity for passerby’s to create something. Do everything you can to make it memorable, this is what will build omnipresence and keep you at the forefront of your ideal client/customer’s mind.
Host a Gala/Fundraiser
Especially if your company has a cause that it regularly contributes to. Philanthropy has become a core value to nearly everyone in the modern world. Knowing that you are an organization that is out doing something for the greater good will make potential clients more likely to work with you. Hosting an event that you invite them to will give the local community and companies that you want to partner with an idea of what your company culture is like and a taste of what they can expect should they do business with you. Hosting an event that will benefit a good cause is sure to bring in a lot of potential partners as they will be happy to attend an event where their ticket cost and donations will contribute to a good cause.
Exchange Event
If you are looking to collect email addresses, take photos for social media, or get more candidates into your company database, an equal exchange can be the way to go. If your office is located in a central location, set up a table outside. If not, find a space you can possibly pay to set up a booth such as a shared workspace, open-air market, or trade show. Invest in a bulk of something that will grab the attention of people passing by such as free smoothies, branded cupcakes, or branded popsockets. Tell people who approach the booth that if they provide their email or take a photo with your product, they are free to take one. Just be sure that it is something they will deem worth it. Branded magnets or pens are outdates and won’t make your company appear as very trendy or prestigious. Make a good first impression by providing them something of value. You could even go the extra mile and have a drawing for a grand prize for everyone who participates. This is how you will get referrals and build a good reputation.
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